President Rodrigo Roa Duterte confers the Order of Sikatuna with the rank of Datu on outgoing Ambassador of Israel to the Philippines Effie Ben Matityau who paid a farewell call on the President at Malacañan Palace on August 6, 2018. RICHARD MADELO/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Monday, August 6, conferred the Order of Sikatuna on outgoing Israel Ambassador to the Philippines Ephraim Ben Matityau during his farewell call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace.

The Order of Sikatuna with the rank of Grand Cross (Datu), silver distinction, was conferred on the Israel envoy for his significant role in strengthening and deepening the cordial relations between the Republic of the Philippines and the State of Israel.

He was also recognized for his key role in increasing people-to-people exchanges and mutual trust between the two countries through defense and education cooperation and tourism promotion.

He was also cited for facilitating Israel’s humanitarian assistance to the Philippine government’s rehabilitation efforts in Marawi City.

President Duterte also recognized the ambassador for “his committed efforts in further strengthening cooperation between the State of Israel and the Republic of the Philippines to advance peace, progress, and prosperity in our countries and for helping bring closer the people of the Republic of the Philippines and the State of Israel in greater friendship, understanding, and mutual respect.”